View the Director's This Epic Preview the Way It Was Never Intended to Be Seen.
Christopher Nolan's mythic action epic, The Odyssey, stands as a movie we've been eagerly awaiting since its announcement. It easily ranks among the most hotly anticipated films of 2026. As a pre-Christmas treat, a preview has now been released, though it's hampered by YouTube's poor compression—perhaps explaining why Nolan initially kept the trailer solely for theatrical audiences.
A First Glimpse of the Stellar Ensemble
The debut footage reveals Matt Damon portraying Odysseus. We also see Tom Holland playing the son alongside Anne Hathaway as Penelope. During an emotional scene, Penelope asks her husband to vow he will return, to which he respond by asking what occurs should he fail. The trailer also offers a brief, shadowy glimpse of the mythical one-eyed giant, whose flock are taken by the hero and his men during their arduous journey.
Based upon a cornerstone in classic storytelling, The Odyssey chronicles the lengthy quest undertaken by the famed ruler. After his triumph in the Trojan War, as told in Homer's Iliad, the king faces an extended and hazardous road home.
Legendary Obstacles and a Star-Studded Lineup
Along his path, Odysseus confronts countless challenges and legendary creatures. These include the enchantress Circe, who transforms men into swine, as well as the treacherous Sirens. Regardless of these ordeals, Odysseus vows to do whatever it takes to reunite with Penelope and Telemachus on his home island.
The adaptation's cast boasts an impressive lineup. Joining Damon, Holland, and Hathaway is Charlize Theron portraying the shrewd goddess, alongside Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Robert Pattinson, Elliot Page, and Jon Bernthal.
A Tale of Many Adaptations
Homer's epic has inspired numerous adaptations over the years. These range from modern retellings to a 1999 ballet. There has even been a stage musical adaptation titled Epic: The Musical, presented as a nine-album collection.
The official trailer has been highly anticipated since the film's announcement and a short teaser clip which was initially shown exclusively in theaters. That footage subsequently found its way onto the internet shortly thereafter.
For a superior viewing experience, the trailer posted on the film's official social channel may provide enhanced visual quality.
The Odyssey is scheduled for release on global IMAX screens next summer.